Optimization and Utilization of the City Roof

Elmegade district is probably one of the most densely populated areas of inner Nørrebro, CPH. Especially the triangular block Birkegade / Egegade / Elmegade has a very high density, which is reflected in very narrow courtyards.

And it is precisely around the cramped courtyard that the concept for BIR originates. The driving concept is to create the ‘missing garden’ at the top of the existing housing block in association with 3 new penthouses, so all residents gain access to a genuine outdoor garden. In order to qualify ‘ the missing garden’, JDSA looked at the Copenhagen gardens, which characteristically has an associated functionality. Therefore, a rooftop garden is designed as a space of functions and an associated materiality.

This is reflected in a playground with shock-absorbing surface and a playful suspension bridge, a green hill with varying accommodation backed by real grass and durant vegetation , a viewing platform, an outdoor kitchen and barbecue, and a more quiet wood deck.

The concept for the BIR, is to optimize and fully exploit the situations the site has to offer, and thereby design a potential for the future exploitation of the roof to the delight of all the co-op’s residents. It is a concept which is not limited to establish the 3 new apartments, but a concept which both creates a useful roof garden as well as a beautiful landscape for the co-op’s neighbours and city residents in general.
Usually a roof defines a final measure of any construction – closure. In the near future the Birkegade roof will open up for a versatile stay and experience.

* Location to be used only as a reference. It could indicate city/country but not exact address. Cite:
"Penthouses and Rooftop Terrace / JDS Architects" 08 Jun 2011. ArchDaily. Accessed 31 Mar 2015. <http://www.archdaily.com/?p=142110>